Fourth of July, Ten Second Film Fest: Freeloader Friday

Fourth of July weekend promises to be a good one. This week in Freeloader Friday we have free fireworks, free film fests, free events for families,and more.

FRIDAY:

Independence Day(Water Power Park, 206 Main St. SE; Minneapolis)

What's more patriotic than a movie featuring angry aliens, a drunk Randy Quaid, and a stirring speech by Bill Pullman as President? Nothing. Be sure to get there early to find a spot, and bring a blanket or a lawn chair for extra comfort. Mark Mallman will warm up the crowd at 7 p.m. with rock tunes before the blockbuster movie starts at 9 p.m. Visit www.mplsredwhiteboom.com for more info.

Which do you prefer? At this group show 25 artists from the 'burbs and the city will explore the pros and cons of life in both areas. The opening reception is from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. (Glenwood Avenue by Toni Dachis)

This fight may be a hard one to watch. UFC heavyweight champion Brock Lesnar has had a long battle regaining his strength and weigh after a near-death bout with diverticulitis. Tonight, he will face interim heavyweight champion Shane Carwin. The event is airing on pay-per-view. However, you don't have to pay to watch. Various locations throughout the city will be screening the fight, including most Buffalo Wild Wings and Drink in Uptown. 9 p.m. (Photo courtesy of UFC)

This two-day celebration includes live music by Big Twang and fireworks on Saturday. Sunday will feature free hot dogs, plus a special Dachshund race that is guaranteed to amuse. 4-11 p.m. Saturday; 1:30 p.m. Sunday.

Bring the kids to this fun afternoon outside on the lawn. Here they can join the drawing club and create a work of art for the museum's Flikr, record their thoughts on the meaning of 'local,' and listen to live music. Pert' Near Sandstone and the Wild Goose Chase Cloggers will play old-time tunes. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. (Pert' Near Sandstone image courtesy of the artists)

Red, White, and Boom!(Main Street, between St. Anthony Main and Riverplace, Minneapolis, 612.230.6484)

There are several locations that are ideal to watch the fireworks from. Father Hennepin Bluffs Park (420 Main St. SE, Minneapolis) is where you'll find family-friendly activities from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. hosted by the Minneapolis Institute of Arts, Radio Disney, and Underwater Adventures Aquarium. On Main Street (between St. Anthony Main and Riverplace in Minneapolis) starting around 3:30 p.m., there will be several live stages with acts including Orange Whip, Lynhurst, and Urban Myth. The fireworks start at 10 p.m. Visit www.mplsredwhiteboom.com for more info.

This lo-fi film fest is always a crowd pleaser for all ages. Each year DIY film auteurs create 10-second masterpieces using using laptops, camera phones, and iPods. The resulting films touch on just about every emotion or reaction possible. Past treasures have included a noir movie, office humor, and a ride to the ER. This year's screening starts at 8 p.m. and will feature beer for sale and live music from Private Dancer. After the fireworks the top 100 movies screen. MplsTV's Kevin Albertson emcees, with the Current's Barb Abney judging winners based on audience approval (cheer for your favorites). Categories added this year include Hangin' Out, Wildlife, and Mindless Violence. 8 p.m. (Photo by Sarah Nienaber)

Open Field(Walker Art Center, 1750 Hennepin Ave., Minneapolis, 612.375.7600, www.walkerart.org)
This totally awesome summer-long event promises to entertain people of all ages and interests. Sip a local beer or enjoy some BBQ from Wolfgang Puck at the Open Lounge. Stop by the Tool Shed and check out sports equipment, picnic blankets, books, games, art materials, and more. Throughout the season there will also be lectures, workshops, performances, and screenings, including computer-making demonstrations from Free Geek, film screenings on the lawn, and live music. Do you want to host your own event on the lawn? Sign up on their website. 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Thursdays; 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays through Saturdays. Through September 5.

Bring a picnic blanket and a flask to this improv show filled with laughs. The yearly improve in the park is moving this year from the Lyndale Rose Garden to the falls. We recommend stopping by Sea Salt and making a date evening of it. For more info call 612.825.1832 or visit www.stevierays.org. Sundays at 5 p.m. and 7 p.m. through August 29.

To celebrate their 25th anniversary Canterbury Park is offering free admission to the races all spring and summer long. Other deals include free pony rides for kids on Sundays, and $1 deals on Thursdays. 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. Fridays (and Thursdays starting June 3); 1:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays. Through August 29.

Last year's event was more sporadic, but was such a hit that the market will be happening every Saturday this year through September. There will be more produce this year, so go ahead and plan a little grocery shopping if the mood strikes. You'll also find tasty prepared food, local stores, and organizations with info to share. Visit www.uptownmarket.org for more info. Sundays from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. (Photo by Roxie Speth)